Pianist/composer Darrin Archer launches his new piano trio CD Melancholy Woods. The album features Sam Anning (bass) and Rajiv Jayaweera (drums). With both of these players now in New York, he will be joined by Ben Robertson (bass) and Hugh Harvey (drums). Gian Slater (vocals) and Chris Hale (acoustic bass guitar) will perform an opening 30 minute support set, followed by the trio doing a one hour set.
Archer has gained a reputation as a formidable pianist and composer both in Melbourne and Sydney. Originally from Melbourne, he completed a Bachelor of Arts (Music, Composition and Theory) from Latrobe University, and then studied jazz piano with Mike Nock and Judy Bailey at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Since then he has worked with many leading artists, including ATM15, Tim Wilson's Cannonball, Tim Shawcross Septet and Gianni Marinucci, as well as bands under his own name. He was a semi-finalist in The National Jazz Awards (2006). In 2008 he studied at Banff Centre, Canada (under the direction of Dave Douglas), and got a lesson from Marc Copland in New York. 
Archer has recorded various albums under other leaders, and released his own debut album of originals, Secret World (on NewMarket) in 2004 to critical acclaim.

“Archer’s instrumental tunes tend to have a strong melodic focus, with moods ranging from gentle lyricism to spikily energetic swing.”  - Jessica Nicholas, The Age

“Archer plays with impressive skill, taste and imagination… an attractive program of original compositions, half featuring his own assured and lyrical piano in a trio setting.” - Adrian Jackson, Rhythms Magazine